Antibiotic Prescribing in Dentistry: A Review of Current Evidence and Clinical Practice

About this project

Background Antibiotics are frequently prescribed in dental practice, despite definitive dental treatment being the primary management for many odontogenic infections. Inappropriate or unnecessary antibiotic prescribing contributes to antimicrobial resistance and exposes patients to avoidable adverse effects. This project will explore the current evidence surrounding antibiotic use in dentistry, including appropriate indications, prescribing patterns, antimicrobial stewardship and areas where clinical practice may diverge from evidence-based guidance. The project is designed to introduce students to literature searching, critical appraisal and academic writing, with the potential to develop the findings into a Letter to the Editor or similar academic publication. Students will: 1. Review the current evidence surrounding antibiotic prescribing for odontogenic infections. 2. Identify situations where antibiotics are and are not indicated. 3. Explore reported antibiotic prescribing patterns within dentistry. 4. Examine factors contributing to inappropriate prescribing. 5. Consider the implications of dental antibiotic prescribing for antimicrobial resistance. 6. Compare evidence with relevant UK guidance. 7. Identify gaps in the existing literature. 8. Develop the findings into a potential publishable literature review or letter to the editor/commentary. No previous research experience is required. Suitable for: * Dental students * Medical students with an interest in dentistry/OMFS * Foundation dentists or experienced dentists * Students interested in academic dentistry Students should have: * An interest in evidence-based healthcare * Basic academic writing skills * Ability to use online literature databases * Commitment to completing agreed tasks on time